A high somatic cell count in dairy cows demands immediate attention from farm managers. Recent studies reveal that elevated somatic cell levels lead to significant losses in milk quality, herd health, and overall profitability.
- High somatic cell count causes more cases of mastitis, increased treatment and labor costs, milk rejection, and price penalties.
- Milk quality drops as bacterial contamination rises, and subclinical mastitis can silently reduce yield by up to 20%.
Farmers can use a somatic cell count tester to identify issues early and apply effective solutions. These solutions remain practical and accessible for every dairy operation.
Key Takeaways
- Use somatic cell count test kit regularly to detect high SCC early and target treatments effectively.
- Maintain strict milking hygiene with teat dipping and clean equipment to prevent infections and lower SCC.
- Keep bedding clean and dry, and provide comfortable, stress-free environments to support udder health.
- Work closely with veterinarians and train staff to follow proper milking and herd management practices.
- Set clear SCC goals and monitor progress often to catch problems early and improve milk quality.
Key Steps to Reduce Somatic Cell Counts
Immediate Actions
Dairy producers facing a high somatic cell count must act quickly to protect milk quality and herd health. Experts recommend selective dry cow therapy (SDCT) as a first-line solution. By using a threshold of 200,000 cells/mL at dry-off and reviewing each cow’s mastitis history, managers can target antimicrobial treatments only where needed. This approach reduces unnecessary antibiotic use and supports udder health. The addition testing of differential somatic cell count (DSCC), which distinguishes immune cell types in milk, allows for more accurate detection of subclinical mastitis. Combining SCC and DSCC data enables faster, more precise interventions.
Another immediate solution involves the use of exogenous melatonin. Research shows that subcutaneous melatonin injections in cows with subclinical mastitis can significantly lower high SCC within days. Melatonin acts as a natural antioxidant, reducing stress-related cortisol and boosting immune response. This method offers a rapid, drug-free alternative for mastitis control, improving milk quality without risking antibiotic residues. For quick identification, a somatic cell count test kit helps pinpoint problem cows and supports timely decision-making.
Tip: Early detection and targeted treatment prevent the spread of infection and minimize milk losses.
Sustainable Practices
Long-term solutions for high SCC focus on overall herd management. Maintaining proper nutrition, a clean environment, and strong cow immunity forms the foundation for sustainable mastitis control. Farms with low SCC often practice minimal udder cleaning—only washing udders when visibly dirty—which helps reduce somatic cell counts. Larger management groups also correlate with lower SCC, likely due to improved social stability and reduced stress.
- Selective antimicrobial treatment for mastitis cases, rather than blanket therapy, maintains low SCC while limiting drug use.
- Organic farms that restrict veterinary medicines achieve similar SCC control as conventional farms, proving that sustainable management works.
- Attention to bedding, cow comfort, and regular use of a somatic cell count tester supports ongoing milk quality improvements.
Sustainable solutions not only reduce somatic cell counts but also deliver higher milk quality and lower mastitis costs over time.
Identify High Somatic Cell Count Cows
Somatic Cell Count Tester Use
Dairy managers rely on accurate tools to detect high SCC cows quickly. A somatic cell count test kit provides rapid, on-farm results, allowing for immediate action. Devices such as the DeLaval Cell Counter, California Mastitis Test, and Porta SCC deliver high sensitivity and specificity, closely matching laboratory standards. The following table compares the performance of these milk quality tests:
| Test Method | Sensitivity (%) | Specificity (%) | Agreement (%) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeLaval Cell Counter | 75.8 – 94 | 97.5 | ~80 | Fast (1 min), high specificity |
| California Mastitis Test | 79 – 95 | 81 – 95 | 73.3 – 83.1 | Fastest (2 min), high sensitivity |
| Porta SCC (color/quick) | 74 – 91 | 79 – 90.7 | 73.7 – 80.6 | Good balance, analysis time 5-45 min |
These testers help farmers identify the high scc cow group efficiently, supporting better udder health and milk quality indicators.
Milk Sampling
Routine milk sampling remains essential for monitoring udder health. Managers collect samples from each cow and analyze them for somatic cell count in milk. The following table outlines standard SCC thresholds and recommended actions:
| SCC Range (cells/mL) | Interpretation / Action |
|---|---|
| Below 100,000 | Baseline healthy udder level |
| 100,000 – 200,000 | Extra attention; possible early infection |
| 150,000 – 200,000 | Likely subclinical mastitis; action warranted |
| 300,000 – 400,000 | Clinical mastitis; active infection with symptoms |
Regular use of a somatic cell count test kit ensures timely detection of high scc and supports targeted interventions.
Early Mastitis Signs
Early detection of mastitis prevents udder damage and reduces elevated scc. Key warning signs include sudden drops in milk yield, increased variation in fat percentage, and changes in milk quality tests. Studies show that monitoring these parameters, along with positive california mastitis test results, predicts subclinical mastitis risk. Cows with CMT scores above zero or SCC values exceeding 200,000 cells/mL often develop mastitis. Managers should watch for these changes to maintain udder health and prevent high scc from affecting the herd.
Tip: Early intervention based on milk quality indicators and somatic cell count test kit results protects both milk yield and udder health.
Prevent Infection Spread
Separate Infected Cows
Dairy managers reduce the spread of infection by separating cows with high somatic cell counts or chronic mastitis. Segregating these animals into a dedicated group limits the risk of contagious pathogens, such as Staphylococcus aureus, moving through the herd.
- Chronically infected cows should be milked last to prevent transmission during milking.
- Segregation lowers the number of new intramammary infections, as bacteria often transfer via teat liners or milkers’ hands.
- Removing or culling cows unlikely to recover further decreases the bulk milk somatic cell count.
A somatic cell count test kit helps identify which cows require isolation. This proactive approach protects healthy animals and supports overall herd health.
Tip: Segregation remains a key management strategy for controlling contagious mastitis and reducing the spread of infection.
Milking Order
Establishing a strict milking order plays a vital role in infection control. Healthy cows should always be milked first, followed by those with subclinical mastitis, and finally, cows known to have high somatic cell counts or active infections. This sequence prevents the spread of infection from sick to healthy animals. When separation is not possible, optimizing the milking routine becomes even more important. Staff should use a somatic cell count test kit regularly to update the milking order as herd health changes.
Clean Equipment
Proper cleaning of milking equipment directly impacts the spread of infection and mastitis rates. The following best practices ensure equipment remains sanitary:
- Neutralize and rinse all equipment thoroughly to prevent corrosion.
- Sanitize connectors, hoses, and all parts with joints or seams, as these areas often harbor bacteria.
- Use chlorine-based sanitizers as directed, ensuring complete coverage and minimal residue.
- Sanitize equipment immediately before milking, then rinse or drain any remaining sanitizer.
- Monitor cleaning parameters such as time, temperature, and pH for maximum effectiveness.
- Keep equipment clean and dry during milking to avoid contamination from manure or dirt.
Regular attention to equipment hygiene, combined with proper cow management and use of a somatic cell count tester, helps maintain low mastitis rates and reduces the spread of infection within the herd.
Proper Milking Procedures
Milking Hygiene
Proper milking procedures begin with strict milking hygiene. Clean, dry bedding and well-managed stalls help keep the udder free from manure and moisture. Before milking, workers should thoroughly wipe each udder dry and remove visible dirt. Forestripping, which involves stripping 3-5 streams of milk, allows early detection of mastitis and helps lower somatic cell counts. Pre-milking teat preparation includes applying a teat dip for at least 20 seconds, followed by drying with clean, laundered towels. These steps reduce the risk of infection and support udder health. The use of gloves and regular cleaning of milking equipment further protects milk quality. A somatic cell count test kit can help monitor the effectiveness of these practices.
| Milking Hygiene Practice | Reduction in Somatic Cell Count (cells/ml) |
|---|---|
| Use of teat dip | 70,300 lower |
| Drying udders after washing | 44,000 lower |
| Mastitis control program (professional) | 58,800 lower |
| Mastitis control program (self-organized) | 40,800 lower |
| Monthly cell counting service | 30,400 lower |
| Use of separate towels | Small effect |
| Rinsing teat cups in disinfectant | Small effect |
Teat Disinfection
Teat disinfection plays a critical role in mastitis prevention and udder health. Pre-milking teat dips, such as iodine or chlorhexidine, reduce bacteria on the teat surface but do not significantly lower somatic cell counts unless combined with post-milking procedures. Physical wiping with disinfectant before milking removes contaminants. However, post-milking teat disinfection remains the most effective method for reducing new intramammary infections and lowering bulk tank somatic cell counts. Farms that consistently use post-milking teat disinfection see better udder health and improved milk quality.
Tip: Always cover at least two-thirds of the teat with disinfectant immediately after milking to maximize protection.
Staff Training
Comprehensive staff training ensures that proper milking procedures are followed every day. Employees who receive training based on herd-specific standard operating procedures (SOPs) demonstrate lower rates of new mastitis infections and better udder health outcomes. The risk of infection rises when staff lack training or when SOPs are not incorporated into daily routines. Regular training sessions, clear protocols, and supervision help maintain consistency and milk quality. A somatic cell count test kit provides valuable feedback for staff, highlighting areas for improvement and reinforcing best practices.
Bedding and Environment
Clean, Dry Bedding
Clean, dry bedding forms the foundation of udder health and low somatic cell counts. Dairy operations that use inorganic bedding, such as sand, consistently report lower bulk tank somatic cell scores. Sand bedding does not support pathogen growth, remains economical, and provides excellent comfort, although it can be challenging to handle. Organic bedding materials, including sawdust, straw, and recycled manure solids, require vigilant management to prevent bacterial buildup. Frequent bedding changes and the use of lime with organic materials help control moisture and reduce pathogen loads. The following table summarizes the properties of common bedding materials:
| Bedding Material | Type | Key Properties and Effects on Cleanliness and SCC Reduction |
|---|---|---|
| Sand | Inorganic | Improves cleanliness, does not promote pathogen growth, preferred for udder health, provides comfort |
| Sawdust/Shavings | Organic | Highly absorbent, promotes pathogen growth when wet, needs lime treatment |
| Compost Bedding | Organic | Requires intensive management, higher environmental pathogens, needs frequent tilling |
| Mattresses | Organic | Waterproof, cleaner with maintenance, needs extra bedding for comfort |
| Recycled Manure Solids | Organic | Low cost, high pathogen growth potential, better resting surface |
| Straw | Organic | Absorbent, insulating, cows tend to be dirtier, higher mastitis risk |
| Paper | Organic | Poor absorbency, results in dirtier animals, often mixed with other bedding materials |
Tip: Inorganic bedding like sand remains the top choice for minimizing bacterial growth and supporting low SCC.
Manage Manure and Mud
Effective manure and mud management directly impacts somatic cell count. Clean passageways, holding yards, and cubicles reduce exposure to environmental mastitis pathogens. Moisture, mud, and manure increase the risk of infection and elevate SCC. Dairy managers should schedule frequent cleaning of all cow traffic areas. Operations that avoid composted manure bedding see lower bulk tank SCC, as composted manure increases the likelihood of higher SCC by nearly three times. Cleaner roadways and yards also prevent dirt from splashing onto udders, further reducing pathogen exposure. Regular use of a somatic cell count test kit helps monitor the effectiveness of these hygiene practices.
- Clean barns and stalls daily
- Remove manure from walkways and holding pens
- Avoid using composted manure as bedding
Cow Comfort
Cow comfort plays a critical role in maintaining low somatic cell counts. Environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and bedding cleanliness influence both cow stress and udder health. Heat stress, especially during hot and humid seasons, raises SCC and weakens immune function. Providing shade, fans, and adequate ventilation helps cows stay cool and reduces stress markers. Clean bedding and calving pens lower the risk of environmental mastitis. Nutritional support, including trace minerals, further strengthens immunity. Managers should monitor SCC trends with a somatic cell count test kit, especially during periods of heat stress, to ensure timely interventions and maintain optimal cow comfort.
Note: Comfortable, stress-free cows with clean, dry bedding are less likely to develop mastitis and high SCC.
Dry Cow Management
Dry Cow Therapy
Dry cow therapy remains a cornerstone in controlling mastitis and reducing somatic cell counts during the non-lactating period. Farmers in Europe have widely adopted selective dry cow therapy (SDCT), with 75% of Dutch producers using this approach by 2013. SDCT relies on a cow’s somatic cell count history, often determined with a somatic cell count test kit, to identify which animals need antibiotics or internal teat sealants. This method maintains udder health and aligns with consumer demand for reduced antibiotic use.
| Therapy Type | Key Findings |
|---|---|
| Blanket Dry Cow Therapy (BDCT) | Historically reduced contagious mastitis and new infections using antibiotics in all quarters |
| Selective Dry Cow Therapy (SDCT) with Internal Teat Sealants (ITS) | Reduces antimicrobial use without increasing risk of new infections or clinical mastitis when ITS are used |
| Internal Teat Sealants alone | Sometimes more effective than antibiotics in preventing new infections |
| Mechanism | ITS provide a mechanical barrier, especially important for high-yielding cows that may not form keratin plugs |
| Meta-analysis conclusion | SDCT with ITS matches BDCT in preventing new infections and mastitis within four months post-calving |
Aseptic technique is essential during antibiotic or sealant infusion to avoid introducing new pathogens. Teat sealants containing bismuth subnitrate can reduce new infections by up to 90% during the dry period. Commercial products now combine short-acting antibiotics and sealants, offering effective treatment options for various herd needs.
Tip: Using a somatic cell count tester before dry-off helps select the right cows for SDCT, supporting both udder health and milk quality.
Selective Culling
Selective culling targets cows with persistently high somatic cell counts, especially chronic mastitis cows. These animals often experience new intramammary infections and have a much higher risk of culling after calving. Removing them from the herd lowers the average somatic cell count and improves overall udder health. Infection dynamics during the dry period influence a cow’s risk of mastitis and culling in the next lactation. Cows with chronic or new infections maintain higher somatic cell counts throughout lactation. By culling these individuals, managers reduce the number of high-SCC cows and decrease the risk of mastitis spreading.
A somatic cell count test kit helps identify which cows contribute most to herd SCC. This targeted approach, combined with effective dry cow therapy, supports a healthier, more productive herd.
Nutrition and Health
Trace Minerals
Trace minerals play a vital role in supporting immune function and controlling somatic cell count in dairy cows. Scientific studies highlight zinc, selenium, manganese, and copper as the most important minerals for maintaining immune defenses and reducing mastitis risk. These elements serve as essential cofactors for enzymes that protect cells from oxidative damage and regulate inflammation. Supplementing dairy diets with these trace minerals, especially during the periparturient phase, can lower somatic cell counts and improve udder health. For example, subcutaneous supplementation with zinc, manganese, selenium, and copper has been shown to increase superoxide dismutase activity, decrease serum beta-hydroxybutyrate, and reduce both milk somatic cell count and mastitis incidence. Zinc supports the integrity of the mammary epithelium and enhances the function of immune cells like neutrophils. Selenium and phosphorus levels also correlate with successful mastitis cure rates. Research suggests that organic forms of these minerals may offer better absorption and immune benefits compared to inorganic salts. Dairy managers should consider increasing dietary trace minerals above standard recommendations during critical periods. Regular monitoring with a somatic cell count test kit helps evaluate the effectiveness of mineral supplementation programs.
Tip: Consistent trace mineral supplementation strengthens immune response and supports long-term milk quality.
Reduce Heat Stress
Heat stress affects dairy cows by altering the composition and viability of somatic cells in milk. While total somatic cell count may not rise directly, heat stress leads to an increase in mammary epithelial cells and a decrease in viable immune cells, especially granulocytes. This shift reduces the cow’s ability to fight infections, making the herd more vulnerable to mastitis. Heat stress also lowers milk yield and disrupts milk components, which impacts productivity. Cows with elevated somatic cell counts often show reduced feed efficiency and increased heat production, reflecting higher energy demands for immune function. Managers can reduce heat stress by providing shade, fans, and adequate ventilation in barns. Access to cool, clean water and minimizing overcrowding further help cows maintain normal body temperature. Using a somatic cell count test kit during hot weather allows early detection of changes in milk quality and immune status.
- Install fans and sprinklers in holding areas
- Ensure proper barn ventilation
- Offer fresh water at all times
Note: Proactive heat stress management protects immune function and helps maintain low somatic cell counts.
Management Plan
Work with Veterinarian
A strong partnership with a veterinarian forms the backbone of any effective somatic cell count management plan. Veterinarians bring expertise in herd health dynamics and guide the milk quality team in making informed decisions. They help identify cows with high SCC by recommending regular use of a somatic cell count test kit and monitoring herd trends. Their input ensures that selective dry cow therapy targets the right animals, which supports sustainable dairy practices and reduces unnecessary antibiotic use.
Veterinarians also play a key role in diagnosing mastitis. They use laboratory testing to determine the causative organisms, which allows the milk quality team to tailor treatment strategies. Their advice on milking procedures, equipment maintenance, and staff training helps maintain high milk quality standards. This collaboration leads to better outcomes for both herd health and farm profitability.
Tip: Regular consultations with a veterinarian help the milk quality team stay proactive and adapt management strategies as herd conditions change.
Action Plan Steps
A clear, actionable plan helps dairy managers reduce somatic cell counts and improve milk quality. The following steps provide a structured approach:
- Identify high-SCC cows using monthly milk quality tests and a somatic cell count test kit.
- Maintain excellent milking hygiene by cleaning teats before milking and applying post-milking teat disinfectants.
- Improve milking techniques and ensure proper maintenance of milking machines.
- Monitor and treat mastitis promptly through regular SCC testing and veterinary-guided protocols.
- Keep the environment clean with dry bedding and good ventilation.
- Enhance cow comfort by minimizing stress and providing balanced nutrition.
- Cull cows with chronic mastitis or consistently high SCC to prevent infection reservoirs.
- Implement dry cow management programs, including dry cow therapy and teat sealants.
- Work closely with the milk quality team and veterinarian to review progress and adjust strategies.
Continuous monitoring and teamwork ensure that the plan remains effective and that herd health goals are met.
Monitor Progress
Set SCC Goals
Dairy managers achieve better udder health by setting clear, measurable goals for bulk tank SCC. Industry standards recommend different targets based on region and operation type. The following table summarizes these benchmarks:
| Dairy Operation Type / Region | Recommended Bulk Tank Somatic Cell Count (cells/mL) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| European Union (Conventional) | ≤ 400,000 | Maximum allowable SCC for manufacturing milk per EU Directive 92/46; geometric mean over 3 months |
| New Zealand | ≤ 400,000 | Similar to EU standards |
| Australia | ≤ 400,000 | Comparable to EU and New Zealand |
| Canada | ≤ 400,000 | Aligns with other developed countries |
| Switzerland | ≤ 350,000 | Slightly stricter than EU standard |
| United States (Conventional) | ≤ 750,000 | Highest limit among major dairy countries; SCC not directly linked to food safety but to milk quality |
| Organic Dairy Farms | Variable, often higher due to management challenges | Requires higher husbandry standards; straw-bedded housing linked to higher SCC (e.g., 275,000 to 352,000 cells/mL reported); strict hygiene and trained staff essential |
| Individual Cow SCC | ≤ 200,000 | SCC above this indicates inflammation or mastitis; used as a health indicator at the cow level |
Many countries offer bonuses for low SCC and penalties for high levels. Managers should aim for stricter goals, such as 200,000 cells/mL, to improve milk quality and processing outcomes. Organic farms face unique challenges and must focus on strict hygiene and well-trained staff. Using a somatic cell count test kit helps track progress toward these goals.
Tip: Setting clear SCC targets motivates the team and supports continuous improvement.
Regular Reviews
Consistent monitoring ensures that SCC goals remain on track. Traditional laboratory SCC testing occurs every 3 to 6 weeks due to cost and logistics. Automated on-farm sensors, such as the online California Mastitis Test (O-CMT), now allow for daily SCC measurements. Averaging daily O-CMT data improves accuracy and helps managers detect mastitis or rising SCC early. Frequent review of SCC data enables timely interventions and supports herd health.
Managers should schedule regular scc testing and review results with the milk quality team. Early detection of trends or sudden increases allows for rapid response. The somatic cell count test kit provides immediate feedback, making it easier to adjust management practices as needed.
- Review SCC data at least monthly, or more often with automated systems.
- Discuss results with staff and veterinarians to identify problem areas.
- Adjust protocols based on trends and feedback.
Note: Frequent SCC reviews help prevent mastitis outbreaks and maintain high milk quality.
Conclusion
Dairy experts recommend these steps to control high somatic cell count and improve milk quality:
- Identify high-SCC cows with regular testing and a somatic cell count test kit.
- Apply strict milking hygiene, including pre- and post-milking teat dipping.
- Maintain clean bedding and comfortable environments.
- Train staff and review protocols as a team.
- Use advanced monitoring tools for early detection.
Consistent teamwork and regular monitoring help reduce high scc, boost milk quality, and support long-term herd health. Stay proactive for lasting results.
FAQ
What Is a Somatic Cell Count Test Kit?
A somatic cell count test kit measures the number of somatic cells in milk. Farmers use it to detect mastitis early and monitor udder health. Quick results help managers make informed decisions about treatment and herd management.
How Often Should Dairy Farms Test for Somatic Cell Count?
Most experts recommend monthly testing for each cow. Some farms use a somatic cell count test kit weekly or even daily for high-risk animals. Frequent testing allows early detection and faster intervention.
Can High Somatic Cell Count Affect Milk Quality?
Yes. High somatic cell count lowers milk quality by increasing bacterial contamination and reducing shelf life. Processors may reject milk or pay less for high-SCC batches. Regular use of a somatic cell count test kit helps maintain quality standards.
What Are the Main Causes of High Somatic Cell Count?
Common causes include mastitis, poor milking hygiene, dirty bedding, and cow stress. Inadequate nutrition and heat stress also contribute. Using a somatic cell count tester helps identify issues before they impact the entire herd.
How Can Staff Training Reduce Somatic Cell Count?
Proper staff training ensures consistent milking routines and hygiene. Well-trained employees follow protocols, use the somatic cell count tester correctly, and spot early signs of mastitis. This teamwork lowers infection rates and supports herd health.